And a big flag in Delhi...
Did you know that India has the second largest flag in the world, which was unfurled in Delhi on 7th March. But it is so big that it does not flutter in the wind; it merely sags under its own weight.
This flag was put up by the Flag Foundation of India, an NGP set up by Naveen Jindal, who has been the champion on Indian flags in the country. This flag, currently raised over Connaught Place measures 5,400 square feet or 60 feet by 90 feet in dimension and this is stated to be as big as half an Olympic-sized swimming pool. It weighs 35 kgs and is up on a 207-feet pole.
Special provisions have been made for this flag. As per the Flag Code of India, the flag can be hoisted only after dawn and has to be lowered slowly after sunset. Why? Believe it or not, it is to prevent it from being exposed to negative nocturnal powers! Well, in case of this huge flag, bringing it down or raising it every day would be a nightmare and Mr.Jindal had asked for the ministry for special provisions in this rule and six months after this request, it was granted too. So now the flag remains up in the night too but it is illuminated by four 2000 watts lights. The second conditionality was that it be replaced immediately if damaged by weather conditions.
Next time you are whizzing by Connaught Place, do glance upwards and salute this huge flag.